GI Lab
A division of Surgery, Endoscopy is a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgery using only mild sedation, which allows physicians to diagnose, treat, and screen for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and even remove abnormal growths. It allows the doctor to look into the body through a small, flexible video camera connected to a monitor called an endoscope.
Common reasons for Endoscopy are GERD, irritable bowel syndrome, abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, bleeding, abnormal X-rays, colitis, diverticular disease, hepatitis, cancer, or ulcers.
Northridge Hospital offers state-of-the-art capabilities throughout its impressive 2,416 square-foot, four Gastroenterology (G.I.) labs.
Digital imaging and fluoroscopy, hi-resolution flat screen monitors and skilled technical staff supports the more than 2,600 procedures annually.
Specially tailored procedures are available for the geriatric population, adults, children, and infants on an inpatient and outpatient basis.
Services
Upper GI Endoscopy (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy-EGD)
Performed to assess frequent heartburn, stomach pain, reflux disorders, abdominal pain, nausea, or difficulty swallowing. This procedure involves the endoscope inserted into the throat to the stomach and the first part of the small intestine.
Lower GI Endoscopy (Colonoscopy)
An examination of the entire colon (colonoscopy) via the rectum. ERCP (Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography) This is a procedure to diagnose, and treat gallstones, by using an endoscope and X-rays for treatment in a non-invasive manner.
Endoscopic Pancreatic Therapy
In conjunction with ERCP, this therapy is used for acute and chronic pancreatitis. Most often used to relieve pain and improve how pancreatic ducts drain.
Flexible Sigmoidoscopy
This procedure is a screening of the lower portion of the rectum and colon.
Liver Biopsies
This is done through the skin to diagnose liver disease.
Esophageal Manometry
Esophageal manometry measures the muscle pressure within the esophagus. This procedure is commonly used for difficulty swallowing food or liquid, heartburn, chest pain, and abnormal X-rays.
24-hour Study
Used to measure acid reflux from the stomach into the esophagus.
Percutaneous Gastrostomy Tube
A PEG tube is a feeding tube that is put into the stomach. A special instrument, called an endoscope, is used to insert the tube. It is used in patients who require long-term feeding, but are unable to eat on their own.
Location: The GI Laboratory is located on the main level of the hospital near the Emergency department and within easy access to parking. We perform procedures Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Parking: Parking is available in the East parking structure located on Etiwanda Blvd. Enter the main lobby entrance and walk towards the Outpatient Admitting center - it will be the first door on the left.
Registration: Please arrive at the Outpatient Admitting center at least one hour before your scheduled appointment. Our admitting staff will register you for your procedure and take you to the GI lab.
Your physician will provide you with complete instructions to prepare for your procedure. Most likely this will involve clearing your GI system with laxatives, purging your colon and/or nothing by mouth for 8 to ten hours prior to the procedure.
Please contact your physician directly for questions pertaining to your procedure.
